About Transform

AIA Chicago Transform is an interdisciplinary, interactive series of classes focused on skill building for the business of architecture. This intensive program centers on transformational leadership, utilizing strategic, tactical and operational skill sets designed to affect change in an architect’s individual career and within their firm. The program also serves as a premier network and relationship building platform through participation in Growth Groups.

Co-sponsored and powered by the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (GS10KSB) Chicago program, and in partnership with Harold Washington College, this collaboration brings award-winning faculty to AIA Chicago members and AEC professionals. AIA Chicago Transform focuses the business curriculum offered to GS10KSB participants through the lens of the business of architecture. 

Each of the four “modules” in the series features interactive activities, speakers, panelists and educators from within the AEC community, providing real-world integration of business skills with leadership fundamentals.

The program is centered upon a 5-year personal/professional development plan, providing an armature for implementing lessons learned and deploying entrepreneurial tools for immediate use within both large and small firms. Each session will focus on both new content and the application of previously taught skills. All participants will be expected to report on how they have applied learned skills to affect change, allowing their peers to share feedback about that applied growth.  

Sole proprietors, managers of small or medium-size firms, and professionals on the path to management and/or firm ownership are ideal candidates for Transform.